Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 March 2007
779 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will investigate the provision of a school bus route to ensure all children in an area of high population can obtain a primary school place in view of the fact that up to 17 children of various ages are without a school place at present (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9587/07]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department assists school promoters in a given area to ensure that, between them, they can provide sufficient places to meet the education needs of all the children from that area. School transport is provided to eligible pupils to support that policy approach.
With regard to the circumstances referred to by the Deputy, it is open to the parents of children who may have been refused a school place to appeal that decision under Section 29 of the Education Act.
I should add that my Department has approved the establishment of a new primary school for the area in question and officials are in communication with the promoters in relation to the necessary arrangements to deliver the new school at the earliest possible date.
